“SmackDown” this week delivered action-packed matches and storyline advancements, but it also left fans scratching their heads at certain moments. Here’s what we loved and hated about this episode.
What We Loved
1. Tiffany Stratton’s First Title Defense
Tiffany Stratton solidified her position as a credible champion with a stellar main event match against Bayley. The 20-minute bout showcased Stratton’s athleticism and ability to hang with a veteran. Her clean victory not only boosted her credibility but also hinted at potential WrestleMania-worthy feuds, including a teased rivalry with Charlotte Flair, who is preparing for a grand return.
2. Kevin Owens’ Heel Excellence
Kevin Owens shone in his opening segment and match against Rey Mysterio. His sharp wit and calculated aggression highlighted his heel persona, making his antics both entertaining and frustrating in the best way. His plea for Rey to pick him as a WrestleMania opponent felt simultaneously delusional and oddly sincere. Owens’ involvement in a major storyline with Cody Rhodes adds further intrigue heading into Royal Rumble.
3. Piper Niven vs. B-Fab
In an era where squash matches often feel repetitive, this one was an exception. Piper Niven dominated, but B-Fab also had moments to shine, proving she’s more than a manager for The Street Profits. This match effectively elevated Niven as a powerhouse while giving B-Fab a chance to showcase her growth in the ring.
What We Hated
1. Belair and Naomi vs. LeRae and Jax: A Repetitive Cycle
The tag match between Belair, Naomi, LeRae, and Jax felt like a rerun with no storyline progression. Belair and Naomi have been stuck in the same loop for months, with no resolution to ongoing tensions or developments regarding Jade Cargill’s mysterious attacker. The match was technically sound but lacked any real stakes or narrative advancement, making it feel hollow.
2. Shinsuke Nakamura’s Absence
The United States Champion was nowhere to be seen, further emphasizing the lackluster booking of his reign. With challengers like LA Knight, Jacob Fatu, and Tama Tonga already in play, Nakamura’s absence only undermines his credibility as champion. WWE needs to integrate Nakamura into these storylines to give the midcard title the importance it deserves.
3. The Bloodline Adjacent Segment
Jacob Fatu, Solo Sikoa, and Tama Tonga shared the spotlight, but the segment fell flat. While the idea of Sikoa walking out due to fan boos was interesting, it felt like wasted potential when Fatu and Tonga didn’t capitalize on the moment to further their narrative. The involvement of LA Knight and Braun Strowman felt disjointed, making the segment appear more like filler than meaningful storytelling.